THE football club once managed by Vic Crowe has been getting the
bird over its latest signing.
Gee the harris hawk is Aston Villa’s newest recruit and the
team’s feathered friend is keeping the pitch in tip-top condition
after magpies were spotted swooping on the pristine grass surface
and digging holes in the hallowed turf.
Bird of prey Gee was brought in from Tamworth-based pest control
firm Envirochoice by Villa Park grounds manager Jonathan Calderwood
to scare away the black and white predators.
He said it was normally crows which created problems for ground
staff, but Villa Park had been free of that hazard for some
time.
Previously Jonathan used large ornamental owls to keep invaders
at bay but now a real bird is proving to be far more effective.
Mr Calderwood said: Jonathan said: “The worst problem you could
have is with crows who cause major problems with the grass
roots.
“But over the last few months we’ve had problems with magpies
trying their luck with our pitch.
“They are not after food, like crows, but they are inquisitive
creatures and dig holes in the turf which isn’t great.
“I think they are attracted to the ultra-violet light machines
that we use through the week.
“They perch on them and then swoop down on to the pitch.
“We contacted our pest control department and they brought in
Gee, who has done a marvellous job.
“He’s just one of the team now.
“He’s become a popular character – he’s like one of the
groundstaff.”
Gee comes into Villa Park three times per week – generally
Monday, Wednesday and Friday – and he will continue to work with
the grounds staff while magpies continue to patrol the skies
around.